By Alvin Lansana Kargbo
The Board of Directors of the Centre for Accountability and Rule of Law Sierra Leone (CARL-SL) has announced the appointment of Jeremy Ben Simbo, formerly the organization’s Head of Programmes, as Acting Executive Director, following the stepping down of Ibrahim Tommy Esq after nearly fifteen years in office.
The announcement was made during a press conference held on Thursday, 22 January 2026, at CARL’s headquarters on Pultney Street, Freetown.
Ibrahim Tommy assumed leadership of CARL-SL in May 2011, and is widely credited with transforming the organisation into one of Sierra Leone’s leading civil society institutions advocating for accountability, justice sector reform, and human rights protection.
According to a press statement from CARL-SL, Ibrahim Tommy’s tenure was marked by strengthened internal governance structures, an expanded programme scope, and the development of strategic partnerships with both national and international institutions. The statement noted that he intensified advocacy for human rights protection, access to justice, and institutional accountability, with a particular focus on addressing sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) and corruption-related offences.
The statement further highlighted that under his leadership, CARL-SL implemented initiatives supporting judicial independence, police accountability, and improved legal and medical services for victims of SGBV. It added that CARL-SL also expanded its oversight activities on public sector governance, consistently demanding accountability for human rights violations and the mismanagement of public resources.
CARL-SL also increased engagement with regional and international justice institutions, promoting credible legal frameworks for addressing atrocity crimes and serious human rights violations.
Speaking at the press conference, Ibrahim Tommy said his decision to step down was not politically motivated, but rather based on personal and professional considerations. He described leading CARL-SL for almost fifteen years as a significant responsibility that required unwavering commitment to public interest advocacy, institutional discipline, and resilience in confronting governance and justice sector challenges.
He said that during his time as Executive Director, CARL-SL worked to build a strong and professional institution capable of defending human rights, supporting vulnerable communities, and promoting justice and accountability at both national and community levels.
According to him, the organisation responded to community-level injustices, provided support for victims of abuse, and remained consistent in holding state institutions accountable.
Ibrahim Tommy also acknowledged that the challenges were extensive, including limited resources, resistance to accountability reforms, and systemic weaknesses within governance structures. Despite these constraints, he said CARL-SL remained firm in pursuing its mandate and succeeded in building credibility among citizens, partners, and international institutions.
He expressed confidence that CARL-SL now has a stronger team, improved systems, and clearer strategic direction capable of sustaining the organisation’s work.
The former Executive Director disclosed that he has accepted an appointment in the private sector where he will serve as Chief Executive Officer, marking a transition from civil society leadership to corporate management. He reiterated that the decision was not influenced by political considerations and reaffirmed his commitment to national development through his new role.
Meanwhile, the CARL-SL Board commended Ibrahim Tommy for strengthening the institution’s capacity and national relevance in governance and justice sector advocacy, noting that his leadership positioned the organisation as a key stakeholder in promoting the rule of law in Sierra Leone.
The Board confirmed that Jeremy Ben Simbo will oversee CARL-SL’s operations and strategic direction in an acting capacity until a substantive Executive Director is appointed.
The Centre for Accountability and Rule of Law Sierra Leone has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening democratic governance, protecting human rights, and advancing justice and accountability in Sierra Leone.
